Japan secure 27-10 win over Italy

Japan 27-10 Italy, Tokyo

Japan began their Nations Championship campaign with an impressive 27-10 win over Italy in Tokyo, despite head coach Eddie Jones being absent through suspension.

Jones was barred from the stadium while serving the final game of a four-match suspension imposed by the Japan Rugby Football Union. Forwards coach Neal Hatley took charge on the day and watched Japan deliver a confident performance in front of more than 20,000 fans.

Italy Score Early Through Brex

Japan had handed a start at fly-half to uncapped university student Ryunosuke Ito, but the home side were put under early pressure.

Italy struck first in the fifth minute when Juan Ignacio Brex burst through the Japanese defence and touched down. The early try suggested Japan could be in for a difficult evening, but the hosts responded quickly.

Just over five minutes later, captain Warner Dearns forced his way over the line for Japan’s first try, bringing the home crowd back into the contest.

Matsunaga Helps Japan Take Control

Japan grew in confidence as the first half developed. Midway through the half, full-back Takuro Matsunaga finished off a slick passing move that cut open the Italian defence and gave the hosts the lead.

Italy’s problems increased when full-back Lorenzo Pani went off injured. Japan then added to their advantage when Matsunaga kicked a penalty.

The visitors spent the closing stages of the first half camped near the Japanese line and eventually took three points from a penalty to reduce the gap. Japan still went into the break with a seven-point lead.

Gunter Try Seals Japan Win

Japan stretched their lead seven minutes into the second half after a spell of pressure ended with flanker Ben Gunter touching down.

Italy tried to work their way back into the match, but Japan defended strongly and managed the game with composure. Michael Leitch came off the bench to win his 93rd cap and produced a typically determined performance to help protect the lead.

The victory gave Japan a strong start to their Nations Championship campaign. They will next travel to Newcastle in Australia to face Ireland before returning to Tokyo to play France. Italy will face New Zealand in Wellington next weekend.